Practices, perceptions, and ethical concerns of antimicrobial use among poultry farmers in Kiambu County, Kenya. One-Health context

Abstract

Globally, the poultry sector is one of the primary animal protein sources for human consumption. The poultry sector enhances both food and economic security in Kenya. This has led to adaptations in the poultry sector to respond to the growing demand for animal protein. Practices such as antimicrobial use for disease management, growth promotion, and product improvement within the poultry industry have led to public health, environmental, and ethical concerns. A predominant poultry-producing region in Kenya, Kiambu County was chosen for this study. In-depth interviews (n=21) were conducted until saturation among both small- and large-scale poultry farmers of layers, broiler, and indigenous chicken breeds. The farmers revealed overuse and misuse of antimicrobials, use of antimicrobials for growth promotion and product improvement, and non-adherence to withdrawal periods. They also use poultry waste in other animal feeds and improperly dispose off antimicrobial dilutions. These practices are all likely to contribute to the development and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is a global threat to human, animal, and environmental health. The lack of awareness of the potential harm caused by the practices and disregard of instructions, demonstrates the need for increased awareness among poultry farmers on rational use of antimicrobials in poultry farming. Poultry farmers’ ignorance and lack of adherence to regulations of antimicrobial use in poultry farming raises ethical concerns about the threat to human, animal, and environmental health. We conclude that a multifaceted One Health approach is required to evaluate the different ethical, social, and biological factors that contribute to the development and spread of antibiotic resistance arising from poultry production to safeguard public and environmental health.